Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari
When planning a safari, picking the best time to visit Tanzania is important. The weather and the seasons can make a significant difference in seeing the animals and the stunning landscapes.
This means that it comes as little surprise that one of the most asked questions when it comes to booking a break in Tanzania, is what time of year is best?
To help you to make sure that you plan the best break in Tanzania possible, we have put together our guide to the very best time of year to visit.
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the Dry season, from late June to October, when wildlife viewing is generally at its best. The wildebeest migration in the Serengeti is usually during June and July and the time to see the wildebeest calving is late January to February. The southern and western circuit parks are best visited during the Dry season (June to October), unlike the more popular northern circuit parks that can be visited year-round.
Best Time: June to October (All parks), June-July and January-February (Serengeti for the wildebeest migration and calving)
High Season: July to March (northern circuit parks; they get crowded), July to October (southern and western circuit parks; they don’t really get crowded any time of the year)
Low Season: April and May (northern circuit parks still get quite a few visitors unlike the southern and western circuit parks, where many lodges close down)
Best Weather: June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Worst Weather: March and April (Peak of Wet season)
High Season
- June to October –Dry Season
- June and July are the Best Time To Visit Tanzania and see the wildebeest migration
- August to September is the best time to see the wildebeest river crossings in northern Serengeti
- Animals are easier to spot since they concentrate around waterholes and rivers
- There are fewer mosquitoes because there is little to no rain
- Skies are clear and most days are sunny
- Mornings and nights get cold; it’s recommended to bring warm clothing
Low Season
- November to May –Wet Season
- January-February is the time to see the calving in the southern Serengeti and an excellent time to see predator action
- The scenery is green and beautiful; it’s low season, meaning lower rates and less crowded parks
- Although wildlife is easier to spot in the Dry season, you’ll still see plenty, especially in the northern circuit parks
- Migratory birds are present, and bird watching is at its best
- Except for March, April, and May, rains are mostly short afternoon showers and seldom interfere with your trip
- March to May is the peak of the Wet season
- Wildlife viewing in Tarangire, Katavi, Selous and Ruaha is better during the Dry season
Conclusion
The important thing to remember about travelling to Tanzania is that booking a safari there is a great idea, no matter what time of year it is. Of course, certain times of year are going to be better to travel there than others, however, any season or month is going to be the perfect time to see some of the most beautiful animals up close and personal in their natural surroundings.
